The officials responsible for antiquities and museums in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries discussed, during their meeting on Wednesday, various topics related to preserving cultural heritage and historical identity, as well as ways to strengthen and develop joint Gulf cooperation in the fields of antiquities and museums.

This took place during the 23rd meeting of GCC antiquities and museums officials, hosted by Kuwait, which commenced on Tuesday and coincides with Kuwait’s celebration as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025.

In Kuwait’s opening remarks, Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, stated that this meeting underscores the importance of culture, history, and Arab media in alignment with national identity and civilizational heritage. He expressed his delight in organizing and hosting this gathering, which reflects the depth of Gulf relations.

Al-Jassar emphasized that the meeting highlights Gulf unity, fosters cultural and historical cooperation, and strengthens shared belonging. He added that it also aims to preserve heritage identity in antiquities and museums among member states and solidify the Gulf’s cultural standing globally.

He explained that the meeting addresses shared topics among member states, including the annual plan for events and activities in antiquities and museums, preparing proposals and regulations, and jointly formulating action plans and decisions before adopting the meeting’s recommendations.

GCC Secretary-General Praises Gulf Cooperation

Eng. Abdullah Al-Rubaie, Head of Human and Environmental Affairs at the GCC General Secretariat, extended his deepest gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait and current Supreme Council President, for his unwavering support for joint Gulf cooperation, alongside GCC leaders, across all fields, including antiquities and museums.

Al-Rubaie noted that this meeting is a crucial step in enhancing cultural collaboration among member states, covering key topics such as the 2025-2030 Action Plan for the Antiquities and Museums Committee, annual activity plans to boost cultural engagement, and expanding community participation in heritage preservation. He added that the meeting also reviews regulations for joint Gulf work.

He stressed the importance of these topics and the need for unified efforts to reflect a shared civilizational identity, praising the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters for its hosting and organizational efforts.

Qatar’s Museums CEO Highlights Gulf Coordination

Mohammed Al-Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, expressed his profound gratitude to all GCC member states for their support and fruitful cooperation during Qatar’s presidency of the 22nd session, which was marked by joint efforts and scientific and cultural exchange.

Al-Rumaihi emphasized the significance of this meeting as a well-established Gulf platform to enhance coordination and integrate efforts in protecting cultural heritage and preserving historical identity. He expressed confidence in Kuwait’s leadership of the current session to continue advancing cultural collaboration.